Harmonizing Functionality and Aesthetics at the Bank of France, Poitiers France

Les Escaliers de Secours, serving as the emergency staircases for the Bank of France at Poitiers, exemplify the fusion of security measures with architectural elegance. This project was born out of the necessity to ensure safety while preserving the aesthetic integrity of the existing historical structure in the heart of Poitiers.

The external spiral staircases, spanning four levels, not only meet strict building and safety codes but also contribute to the visual allure of the urban landscape. To comply with height regulations, the structure needed to be enclosed, leading to the innovative design of a modular panel system. This system not only enhances security but also creates a captivating continuous pattern along the façade.

Utilizing algorithmic modeling software, the design team explored various iterations to optimize economy, structure, and aesthetics. The result is a panel design that serves a dual purpose: providing visual interest and structural integrity. The panels, constructed from cor-ten steel, require minimal maintenance and offer an industrial contrast to the classical architecture of the Bank of France.

By reusing the same panel design throughout the façade, construction costs were minimized without compromising on visual impact. Depending on their orientation, the panels create a dynamic interlocking pattern, contributing to the overall coherence of the design.

Completed in 2011 under the expertise of Creature Architectes, Les Escaliers de Secours stands as a testament to the innovative spirit of architectural design. It seamlessly blends functionality with aesthetics, ensuring both safety and visual harmony in the urban fabric of Poitiers.